Content on this page was developed during the 2009-2010 H1N1 pandemic and has not been updated.
- The H1N1 virus that caused that pandemic is now a regular human flu virus and continues to circulate seasonally worldwide.
- The English language content on this website is being archived for historic and reference purposes only.
- For current, updated information on seasonal flu, including information about H1N1, see the CDC Seasonal Flu website.
Download & print this entire guideCaring for Someone Sick at Home
Medicine Safety
December 5, 2009, 6:00 AM ET
Take The Right Amount Of Medicine
Read labels to make sure you are taking the dose listed on the label. Call your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions. Watch that you don’t go over the daily limit (maximum dose) for certain medicines. 
Never give aspirin to children age 18 or under if they have the flu.
Don’t Drink Alcohol And Take Medicine
Some medicine labels say, “Do not mix with alcohol” or “Avoid using with alcohol.” Many prescription and over-the-counter medicines can be dangerous or deadly when mixed with beer, wine, or liquor of any kind.
Talk To Your Doctor If You Are Pregnant
If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, make sure you talk to your doctor before taking any medicines.
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